How can I get the most out of a language class that's too low a level for me?

Question

I want to stay in the class, because it's cheap and convenient time and location-wise, plus I'd like to get to know the other students if possible. There's no higher level. The class (German) is about an advanced-beginner level and I'd say I'm lower-intermediate. I can read better than I speak, and I'm constantly encountering vocabulary I don't know. The class is two hours, twice a week, until October I think. Thanks for any suggestions.

Answer 1

Well, if you already know the grammar and stuff they teach you in that class, I'd put my energy into reading as much as possible to increase vocab and I think really the only reason to stay in a class that covers stuff you already know is to speak as much as possible. So make sure you do a lot of participating.

Answer 2

This is a problem I am familiar with.

Rationalise it. It's better to stay in a class you get exposure to the language and social enjoyment from than not go to class. Just telling yourself that will put you in a frame of mind to get the best out of the class. And continuous consolidation and revision is never time wasted in my experience.

I wonder if perhaps you might also find a way gently and subtly to help some of the other students without appearing to seem superior and without undermining the teacher's authority. There are few better ways of learning for yourself than helping others to learn!

Answer 3

Just get as much out of it as you can and try to help others in the class too if it doesn't screw up your pronunciations too much.

I have taken Spanish Classes from time to time and in some instances I had better command of the language than the teacher... but that was obvious to everyone and I ended up learning more because people would ask me the difficult questions.

You get as much out of something as you put into it.

Answer 4

Talk to your professor about giving you more advanced homework and exercises that will tackle your weaknesses. Read as much as you can to expand your vocabulary and talk to you classmates as much as you can to work on your speaking skills. Good luck :)

Answer 5

talk to your teacher, it is most likely that he should help you.

if he does not, find another school and have them to evaluate your level.

Personally, it is better to be at a class that is slightly above your level, than one that is below.